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Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

About Pacific Fusion 

Pacific Fusion was founded in 2023 with the mission to power the world with abundant, affordable, clean energy.

We are rapidly designing and building a pulsed magnetic fusion system to achieve net facility gain (more fusion energy output than stored energy input). In parallel, we are developing the key components required to build affordable fusion systems.

Our plans are ambitious. We have raised over $900M so far from incredible investors, resourcing us to deliver on these plans. We are bringing together the best scientists, engineers, and operators from the fusion community, hard tech industry, and other sectors. We are united by a shared sense of urgency to provide clean power for the world, particularly managing climate change while meeting growing global energy demand. You can read more about us in this letter from our founders.

Pacific Fusion is pioneering advancements in pulsed magnetic nuclear fusion, and we are seeking a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer to join our Optical Diagnostics Group. This engineer will play a key role in the design, development, integration, and testing of advanced opto-mechanical systems that enable high-precision diagnostic measurements in extreme fusion environments.

Pacific Fusion is pioneering advancements in pulsed magnetic nuclear fusion, and we are seeking a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer to join our Optical Diagnostics Group. This engineer will play a key role in the design, development, integration, and testing of advanced opto-mechanical systems that enable high-precision diagnostic measurements in extreme fusion environments.

Responsibilities

  • Design, model, and analyze opto-mechanical systems for high-energy plasma diagnostics, including optical sensors, imaging systems, and laser-based measurement tools.

  • Develop robust and radiation-resistant optical systems capable of operating in high-temperature, high-magnetic-field, and high-vibration environments.

  • Collaborate closely with physicists, engineers, and experimentalists to define optical system requirements for plasma diagnostics and high-speed imaging.

  • Perform opto-mechanical simulations (thermal, structural, and optical) to optimize system performance under extreme conditions.

  • Design precision optical mounts, beam delivery systems, and shielding to ensure optical integrity in a fusion reactor environment.

  • Specify, prototype, and validate optical components, including lenses, mirrors, fiber-optics, and detectors, ensuring they meet stringent performance requirements.

  • Utilize CAD and optical design software to create models, tolerances, and technical documentation for optical systems.

  • Integrate optical diagnostics into the overall fusion reactor experimental setup, ensuring alignment with other diagnostic and engineering systems.

  • Support design-for-manufacturing (DFM) efforts, including material selection for high-temperature, high-radiation conditions.

  • Work with external vendors, suppliers, and internal teams to source and fabricate custom optical components.

  • Develop and execute calibration and validation procedures for optical diagnostics, ensuring measurement accuracy and repeatability.

  • Maintain and improve optical diagnostic systems for long-term fusion experiments, troubleshooting performance issues as they arise.

Required Qualifications

  • Extensive experience in the Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or related field.

  • Strong background in opto-mechanical design for extreme environments, ideally in fusion energy, high-power lasers, plasma physics, aerospace, or similar high-energy physics fields.

  • Expert-level proficiency in CAD software (Creo preferred) for opto-mechanical component and system design.

  • Hands-on experience with optical metrology and alignment techniques, including interferometry, wavefront sensing, and high-precision positioning systems.

  • Experience designing radiation-resistant and thermally stable optical systems.

  • Knowledge of fiber-optic systems, laser diagnostics, and high-speed imaging sensors.

  • Ability to work cross-functionally with physicists, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and experimentalists in a dynamic research setting.

  • Experience with vibration isolation, thermal analysis, and structural FEA simulations for opto-mechanical systems is a plus.

  • Familiarity with vacuum systems, cryogenics, and high-power laser optics is a plus.

Benefits:

  • Industry-competitive salary

  • Equity plan

  • 6% employer 401k matching

  • Generous paid time off (including sick leave, vacation, paid family leave)

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance

Average salary estimate

$135000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$120000K
$150000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer, Pacific Fusion

At Pacific Fusion, we are on a mission to change the energy landscape by developing groundbreaking technologies to harness clean, abundant fusion energy. We are thrilled to announce an opening for a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer in our San Leandro office, joining our innovative Optical Diagnostics Group. You'll dive deep into creating advanced opto-mechanical systems that are critical for high-precision diagnostics in extreme fusion environments. Your day-to-day will be a mix of designing, developing, and testing complex optical systems essential for understanding high-energy plasma behavior. You'll collaborate with a brilliant team of physicists and engineers, ensuring that our systems meet the rigorous demands of a fusion reactor. If you have a knack for problem-solving and a passion for pushing the boundaries of optical engineering in high-stakes settings, you’ll find a welcoming environment here at Pacific Fusion. The ideal candidate has extensive experience with opto-mechanical designs and thrives in collaborative, fast-paced environments. If you are ready to take on challenges that drive the advancement of renewable energy solutions, we can't wait to meet you! Your work will not only contribute to the success of our ambitious goals but also make a meaningful impact on the world’s energy future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer Role at Pacific Fusion
What are the main responsibilities of a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer at Pacific Fusion?

As a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer at Pacific Fusion, your primary responsibilities will include designing and analyzing opto-mechanical systems for high-energy plasma diagnostics. You'll work on developing robust optical systems that can withstand challenging environments, collaborating closely with physicists and engineers to refine system requirements, and performing complex simulations to optimize performance. Your expertise will help ensure that our optical diagnostics meet the highest standards of accuracy and reliability.

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What qualifications are required for the Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer position at Pacific Fusion?

To qualify for the Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer position at Pacific Fusion, candidates should have a robust background in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Experience in opto-mechanical design for extreme environments, particularly in fusion energy or high-energy physics, is essential. Proficiency in CAD software, specifically Creo, is required, along with hands-on experience with optical metrology techniques and a solid understanding of radiation-resistant optical systems.

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What types of projects will the Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer at Pacific Fusion be involved in?

In the role of Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer at Pacific Fusion, you will take part in exciting projects that involve designing and testing advanced optical systems for diagnostic measurements in fusion reactors. You'll be integral to collaborations that push the limits of technology, developing systems that can operate under extreme conditions and contribute to our mission of achieving net facility gain through pulsed magnetic fusion.

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What is the work environment like for a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer at Pacific Fusion?

The work environment for a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer at Pacific Fusion is dynamic and collaborative. You'll be part of a team with some of the best scientists and engineers in the fusion community, all united by a common goal of delivering clean power. The atmosphere is fast-paced and innovative, focusing on problem-solving and creative engineering solutions, making it an exhilarating place to work.

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Does Pacific Fusion offer career development opportunities for Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineers?

Yes, Pacific Fusion is committed to the professional growth of our employees, including Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineers. You will have opportunities to expand your skills through continuous learning, conferences, and engaging with cutting-edge research in the field of fusion energy. We encourage career advancement and support our team members in achieving their professional aspirations.

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Common Interview Questions for Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer
How do you approach the design of opto-mechanical systems for extreme environments?

When designing opto-mechanical systems for extreme environments, start by thoroughly understanding the operational parameters, including temperature ranges, magnetic fields, and vibrations. Employ modeling software to simulate the conditions and ensure the integrity of components, while also considering material properties, optics alignment, and thermal management strategies. It's crucial to incorporate feedback from cross-functional teams to meet the system requirements effectively.

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Can you describe a challenging project you've worked on in optical system design?

In discussing a challenging project, focus on specific obstacles you encountered in optical system design, such as meeting tight performance specifications under strict environmental conditions. Detail your problem-solving steps, the collaboration involved, and the outcomes. Highlighting technical skills in CAD, simulation tools, or metrology techniques will also demonstrate your expertise.

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What experience do you have with optical metrology techniques?

Discuss your hands-on experience with optical metrology techniques, particularly focusing on specific methods like interferometry, wavefront sensing, or alignment procedures. Give examples of how you've applied these techniques in your previous roles to solve real-world design challenges or optimize system performance, illustrating your depth of knowledge in the field.

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How do you ensure the optical integrity of systems in harsh environments?

To ensure optical integrity in harsh environments, I design with materials that embody radiation resistance and thermal stability. I also employ advanced modeling techniques to assess potential risks, focusing on elements such as vibration isolation and optical mount design. Regular calibration and validation procedures are essential to maintain optimum performance during prolonged operations.

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What CAD software are you most proficient in, and how have you used it in your work?

I am most proficient in Creo and have used it extensively for designing complex opto-mechanical components. I create detailed models, including tolerances and assembly documentation, ensuring that systems meet both performance and manufacturability standards. I always leverage the software's capabilities to simulate real-world conditions to predict performance accurately.

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How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects?

I prioritize tasks by evaluating project deadlines, technical complexities, and interdependencies. Using project management tools and methods, I break down projects into actionable steps, always communicating with team members to align efforts. This approach helps ensure that I maintain progress across projects while meeting critical milestones.

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What role does cross-functional collaboration play in your work?

Cross-functional collaboration is vital in my work as a Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer. I regularly engage with physicists, mechanical engineers, and experimentalists to gather comprehensive requirements and validate designs. By sharing insights and feedback, we enhance system functionality and ensure that optical diagnostics integrated into fusion reactors meet critical performance metrics.

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Can you explain how you approach troubleshooting optical systems?

When troubleshooting optical systems, I first gather data to identify the root cause of any performance issues by examining system behavior against expected outcomes. Utilizing diagnostic tools and simulations, I trace potential faults, assess critical alignments and component integrity, and apply systematic methods to rectify problems ensuring long-term reliability.

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What is your understanding of the current advancements in fusion energy technology?

I stay informed about advancements in fusion energy technology by engaging with research papers, attending conferences, and networking within the industry. This understanding informs my design approaches and encourages innovation, as I constantly seek to implement the latest techniques in high-energy plasma diagnostics and optical systems, aiming to align my work with Pacific Fusion's goals.

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How do you handle tight deadlines and high-pressure situations?

In high-pressure situations, I focus on maintaining clarity and keeping an organized approach to project management. I prioritize tasks, communicate effectively with my team, and remain flexible when adjustments are needed. This method allows me to maintain high-quality outputs while embracing the urgency often associated with innovative engineering projects.

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Affordable fusion power inspired by nature. We’re taking an approach based on established science and designing for scale from the beginning. We will be sharing more soon.

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DATE POSTED
March 22, 2025

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